Ukraine and the Republic of Korea are deepening cooperation in the field of green energy and infrastructure reconstruction. The Korean corporation POSCO International is preparing to build a combined heat and power (CHP) plant in Odesa, which will run on RDF fuel (refuse-derived fuel produced from waste).
Strategic Significance of the Odesa CHP
The project was discussed during a meeting between Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture Oleksiy Sobolev and representatives of POSCO International, with the support of the Economic Development and Cooperation Fund (EDCF) and KEXIM Bank.
The CHP has already been included in Ukraine’s Unified Project Portfolio and will undergo expert review before final approval by the Strategic Investment Council.
According to Sobolev, the initiative combines both investment and environmental benefits, setting a precedent for future waste-to-energy projects across the country.
Why the Project Matters
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Green technology: The CHP will operate on RDF fuel, helping reduce municipal waste and harmful emissions.
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Energy security: Odesa will gain an additional stable energy source, strengthening resilience amid wartime challenges.
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Investment impact: The project is a key element of Ukraine’s reconstruction strategy, opening the door for international investors in the waste-to-energy sector.
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Replication potential: Successful implementation in Odesa will allow the model to be expanded to other Ukrainian regions.
POSCO’s Role in Ukraine’s Reconstruction
POSCO has extensive experience in global infrastructure projects, making it a reliable partner for Ukraine’s transformation. With financing support from EDCF and KEXIM Bank, Korean companies are expected to play a growing role in Ukraine’s green energy transition.
Beyond the CHP project, POSCO representatives also discussed:
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A joint project with Ukrzaliznytsia to build a railway depot;
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The launch of a grain terminal in Mykolaiv region, enhancing export logistics for agricultural products.
✅ Key Takeaway for Investors
The POSCO RDF-fueled CHP in Odesa represents a model project for Ukraine’s sustainable reconstruction, where foreign investment, energy resilience, and environmental protection intersect. With Korean financing institutions backing such initiatives, international investors gain a unique entry point into Ukraine’s green energy and infrastructure sectors, with opportunities to scale successful projects nationwide.
